Exploring Long Noncoding RNAs as Regulators of Tumor Ferroptosis: Advances and Challenges.

Abstract

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a class of noncoding RNAs exceeding 200 nucleotides in length, play critical roles in regulating diverse biological processes and gene expression. Emerging evidence highlights their significant association with cancer occurrence, progression, prognosis, and therapeutic resistance, positioning lncRNAs as promising molecular targets for tumor detection and treatment. Ferroptosis, a regulated form of cell death characterized by the accumulation of iron-dependent lipid peroxides, has gained attention as a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer, complementing existing modalities such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted molecular therapy. Recent research demonstrates that lncRNAs modulate ferroptosis in solid tumors, thereby influencing tumor cell invasion, metastasis, and proliferation. Inducing ferroptosis has been shown to inhibit tumor growth, reduce chemoresistance, and enhance radiotherapy efficacy. This review explores recent advancements in understanding the role of lncRNAs in tumor ferroptosis, with a focus on their involvement in iron metabolism and their potential as therapeutic targets in cancer combination therapies.